Change display time — Currently: Central Daylight Time (CDT) (Event time)

Create, Build, Inspire: The Maker of Things Playground.

,
HBGCC - Playground B

Playground
Blended Content
Save to My Favorites

Session description

In this hands-on session, participants will create innovative projects blending art, design, and technology. Rotating through interactive stations, they’ll use microcontrollers, recycled materials, and coding to build prototypes. Each station challenges problem-solving while fostering creativity, offering practical ways to integrate maker activities into the classroom.

Outline

Station 1: Arduino Robotics Challenge
Objective: Build and program a simple robot that can follow a line using an Arduino Uno and basic sensors.
Materials:
Arduino Uno kits
Line-following sensor
Motors, wheels, and chassis
Breadboards and jumper wires
Activity: Participants will work in pairs to assemble a small robot and write basic code that enables the robot to follow a line drawn on the ground.
Learning Outcome: Participants will learn about motor control, sensors, and basic Arduino coding.
Station 2: Microbit Controller Music Maker
Objective: Program a Microbit Controller to create a simple music or sound-based project.
Materials:
Microbit Controller kits
Speakers/buzzers
Alligator clips and conductive materials
Activity: Participants will program the Microbit Controller to play music, interact with sensors (such as light or motion), and use conductive materials like foil to create a touch-sensitive musical instrument.
Learning Outcome: Understanding how to integrate music with coding and electronics using a simple interface.
Station 3: LEGO Engineering Build
Objective: Design and build a bridge or a tower using LEGO Technic that can withstand a weight challenge.
Materials:
LEGO Technic sets
Various weights (to test the structure’s strength)
Activity: In small groups, participants will construct a bridge or tower using LEGO Technic pieces, then test its strength by adding weights until the structure fails.
Learning Outcome: Gain insights into structural engineering and problem-solving through physical construction.
Station 4: Cardboard Circuit Creations
Objective: Build simple circuits using cardboard and conductive materials like copper tape, LEDs, and batteries.
Materials:
Cardboard cards
Copper tape
LEDs and coin cell batteries
Decorative markers/stickers for customization
Activity: Participants will design and create greeting cards or 3D models with embedded LED circuits using copper tape and basic materials.
Learning Outcome: Explore the basics of circuits and conductivity through an accessible and creative hands-on activity.
Station 5: Air Rocket Launcher
Objective: Design and launch an air-powered rocket using simple materials.
Materials:
Cardboard tubes
Paper, tape, and scissors for rocket construction
Air rocket launcher (foot pump system)
Activity: Participants will build rockets using cardboard and paper, then launch them with an air-powered launcher to see whose rocket flies the furthest.
Learning Outcome: Understand basic aerodynamics and the physics of propulsion by iterating on rocket designs.
Station 6: Kahoot Contest – Maker Knowledge Challenge
Objective: Test knowledge on maker concepts learned throughout the stations.
Materials:
Kahoot! quiz system
Projector or screen
Tablets or smartphones for participants to answer questions
Activity: Participants will compete in a Kahoot quiz based on the knowledge and skills they’ve learned at the other stations. The quiz will cover basic electronics, coding, engineering concepts, and maker practices.
Prizes: Small maker-themed prizes such as mini kits, LEDs, or components for winners.
Learning Outcome: Reinforce knowledge acquired during the session through an engaging, competitive quiz format.
Station 7: Cardboard City – Collaborative Build
Objective: Collaboratively design and build a cityscape using only cardboard and limited materials.
Materials:
Large sheets of cardboard
Scissors, tape, and glue
Markers and decorations
Activity: In small teams, participants will be given a theme (e.g., futuristic city, eco-friendly town) and tasked with designing and building structures for a collaborative cardboard city.
Learning Outcome: Encourage teamwork, creativity, and engineering concepts by using everyday materials to tackle a large-scale design challenge.
Time Breakdown for Each Station:
Setup & Instructions: 5 minutes per station
Hands-on Activity: 20 minutes per station
Transition Time Between Stations: 5 minutes

More [+]

Supporting research

https://makerfaire.com/yearbook/2023-projects/make-magazine/
https://projecthub.arduino.cc

More [+]

Presenters

Photo
Himalaya International School Monterrey
Photo
Educational Technology Director
Himalaya International School of Monterrey
Photo
Himalaya International School Monterrey
Photo
Himalaya International School Monterrey
Photo
Himalaya International School Monterrey
Photo
Himalaya International School Monterrey
Photo
STEM LAB Coordinator
Himalaya International School Monterrey
Photo
Himalaya International School Monterrey

Session specifications

Topic:

Innovative Learning, Making and Fabrication.

TLP:

Yes

Grade level:

PK-12

Audience:

Teacher Development, Teacher, Technology Coach/Trainer

Attendee devices:

Devices not needed

Subject area:

Engineering, Interdisciplinary (STEM/STEAM)

ISTE Standards:

For Students:
Empowered Learner
  • Set learning goals, develop strategies leveraging technology to achieve them and reflect on the learning process to improve learning outcomes.
  • Build networks and customize their learning environments in ways that support the learning process.
Knowledge Constructor
  • Build knowledge by actively exploring real-world issues and problems, developing ideas and theories and pursuing answers and solutions.

TLPs:

Ensure Equity, Prioritize authentic experiences

Additional detail:

Student presentation